By: Taja Johnson, Follow South Jersey Intern
SOUTH JERSEY – Mina SayWhat Llona, an award-winning radio host and multimedia personality hailing from New Jersey, is a force to be reckoned with in the world of broadcasting. With over a decade of experience spanning television, radio, and digital media, Mina’s journey in the entertainment industry is nothing short of inspiring.
One of the highlights of Mina’s career is her podcast, “Mina’s House,” which has become a significant platform for emerging artists in the music industry. But how did it all start? In a recent interview, Mina shared the story of her beginnings and her transition from college student to accomplished radio host and podcaster.
“I got started in college when I was 18 years old,” Mina explains. “I went to Syracuse University and stumbled upon the school radio station during my freshman year on campus. I never thought that would be my career, but after working at the school radio station for a semester, I realized I was good at it and never left.”
Mina’s early journey laid the foundation for her remarkable career. Notable milestones include securing a full-time job at Sirius XM Radio at the young age of 21 and hosting a morning show at Philadelphia radio station Power 99 (WUSL) when she was just 25 years old.
“Every step was important because I learned more about my craft as I elevated,” Mina reflects. “It was a journey of growth and self-discovery.”
Mina’s story takes an exciting turn as she describes her transition from being an on-air personality to becoming an entrepreneur in the entertainment industry. She emphasizes the importance of having one’s own venture outside of the radio station to achieve success in the industry.
“I realized to be successful in this industry, you have to have your own thing going on outside the radio station,” says Mina. “So, I formed my own company to build my business that’s separate from the radio station. It allows me to be independent and work with clients on my own.”
Starting her own company came with its challenges, including the need for consistent effort and more aggressive pursuit of business opportunities. Mina also highlights the importance of having a separate company to handle her business endeavors.
Mina’s entrepreneurial spirit extends to her podcast and its presence on Spotify. “Mina’s House” is not just a platform for music; it’s a space where artists find support and recognition from someone who is genuinely passionate about their work.
“I have to be passionate about the artist and genuinely believe in them,” Mina explains. “Supporting artists from the beginning of their careers helps build real relationships in this business.”
Mina’s podcast on Spotify is a hub for emerging talent, creating a profound impact on both artists and her business. Her journey in the music industry is defined by her unwavering support for musicians and her dedication to promoting their work.
Mina Llona shares valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs venturing into the entertainment and music industry:
“Get your paperwork first. Start your LLC and get your business set up the correct way. Make sure your business is registered with the state you’re operating in. Also, get accounts that are strictly for your business to track spending and earnings. Invest in marketing.”
As for the future of the entertainment and music industry, Mina remains open to possibilities and gradual transitions. While her company on Spotify is currently a percentage of her overall income, her diverse sources of revenue include radio hosting and content creation.
Mina explains, “Perhaps in the future, I will pivot to working solely for myself as a talent coach, liaison, or consultant, but that is years from now. I will say this: I am doing the leg work and working on small projects that will make that transition easy when the time comes.”
Mina Llona’s journey in the entertainment industry is a testament to hard work, dedication, and sacrifices. From a single mother’s household in New Jersey to her dream career, she embodies achievement and the pursuit of passion.
To check out Mina SayWhat on Instagram, click here, on Facebook, click here, and on X (formerly known as Twitter) click here.
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